Removal and installation the airbag unit on the steering wheel (BMW 3 Series E46)

Before removing the airbag unit, be sure to read the safety instructions.

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable with the ignition off. The battery is located in the trunk behind the lid on the right side. For BMW 316i, 318i, the battery is located in the engine compartment.

When the battery is disconnected, the memory data of individual devices' faults is erased. If necessary, read the memory data before disconnecting the battery. Refer to Section Troubleshooting. It is advisable to carry out the work in a service station.

2. Unlock the steering column and pull out the steering wheel as far as possible and set it to the lowest position.

3. Turn the steering wheel to an angle of 90° (1/4 turn) from the middle position so that the spokes are vertical.



4. Unscrew the upper steering wheel mounting screw "1" at the back using a Torx T30 "2" screwdriver. A socket wrench can be used to unscrew the screw. Turn the steering wheel 180° (1/2 turn) and completely unscrew the second airbag mounting screw. The screws remain in the steering wheel.

5. Use a screwdriver to slightly pry up the airbag unit. Press in the airbag connector lock and disconnect the connector. If equipped, disconnect the multifunction steering wheel connector.



6. Remove the airbag unit and place it with the soft side facing up, for example in the trunk.

Installation

7. Check if the negative (-) battery cable is disconnected.

8. Fix the airbag unit connector until you hear a click. If there is a multifunction steering wheel connector, connect it.

9. Install the airbag unit and secure it to the back of the steering wheel with a torque of 2 Nm using the HAZET –6108 –1 CT torque wrench and the 2223 –T30 head. Make sure that the cable is not pinched.

No one is allowed to be in the vehicle while the battery is disconnected.

10. Connect the negative (-) battery cable with the ignition off, set the clock time.